“The Bobrisky case goes beyond a personal scandal and reflects Nigeria’s systemic leadership and governance failures. Allegations of preferential treatment, bribery, and misconduct among prison authorities highlight a society rife with deep-rooted corruption and a lack of moral integrity. The suspension of several prison officials at the Kirikiri prisons in Lagos is a clear example of this corruption, exposing a system that should uphold justice but instead perpetuates inequity and favoritism.”
The title of this article, “All Nigerians are equal, but some Nigerians are more equal than others,” may seem unorthodox to some. Nonetheless, it effectively encapsulates the widespread disparities within our society. Nigeria cannot be a nation where everyone is equal, as this inequality is evident across various aspects of society. From political appointment to school admission and employment, inequality, privilege, and favoritism are deeply embedded in Nigerian society. For example, opportunities are often skewed in favor of those with connections or financial means, leaving many qualified individuals without access to gainful employment. This systemic inequality affects economic opportunities and permeates social and educational spheres, creating significant barriers for those without influential connections or financial resources. The article discusses a viral audio recording that surfaced a week ago, showcasing a scandal between Bobrisky, a prominent Nigerian crossdresser, and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigerian Correctional Service. Since its release, the voice recording has sparked widespread conversations about scandal, bribery, and corruption within Nigeria’s social and political sphere, leading to meaningful discussions about transparency and accountability in our institutions. The scandal revolves around an audio released by VeryDarkMan (VDM), featuring a controversial voice recording of Bobrisky. In the recording, Bobrisky can be heard discussing how he allegedly paid bribes to the EFCC, the Nigerian Correctional Service, and a law firm to secure a private apartment for the duration of his sentence.
In some areas of the world, such as the United States and many Western nations, the belief in equality and the endowment of unalienable rights by a creator is prevalent, rooted in the principles of democracy and human rights. However, in Nigeria, societal beliefs are often shaped by a complex interplay of historical, cultural, and economic factors, perpetuating a social hierarchy based on perceived superiority and inferiority. This hierarchical structure usually manifests as a division between the “haves” – those who wield economic and political power – and the “have-nots” who struggle to access resources and opportunities. This mindset is often ingrained in individuals from a young age, starting within the confines of their own homes. During my upbringing in Nigeria, it was common for affluent families to employ “house helpers” – typically teenagers from low-income households – to live with them in exchange for domestic duties such as cleaning, laundry, cooking, childcare, and other household chores. Many families we knew had shared stories about their household staff. Whether it was about mistreatment of the house helpers or inappropriate relationships, these scandals seemed never-ending. Over time, we realized that “All Nigerians are Equal, but Some Nigerians are More Equal than Others.” The question now is, what am I trying to convey with this comparison?
The Bobrisky case goes beyond a personal scandal and reflects Nigeria’s systemic leadership and governance failures. Allegations of preferential treatment, bribery, and misconduct among prison authorities highlight a society rife with deep-rooted corruption and a lack of moral integrity. The suspension of several prison officials at the Kirikiri prisons in Lagos is a clear example of this corruption, exposing a system that should uphold justice but instead perpetuates inequity and favoritism. The accusations against Bobrisky center on allegations of receiving preferential treatment and privileges while in custody, prompting concerns about the impartiality of the justice system. Bobrisky’s accusations center on allegations of receiving preferential treatment and privileges while in custody, prompting concerns about the impartiality of the justice system. This has led to widespread public scrutiny and calls for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Bobrisky’s VIP treatment while in custody. The situation has sparked debates about potential inequalities within the justice system and raised questions about the fairness and transparency of the treatment of high-profile individuals in legal proceedings.
The case of Bobrisky illustrates the paradox: “All Nigerians are Equal, but Some Nigerians are More Equal than Others.” The quote encapsulates that despite the constitutional assurance of equality, pervasive issues such as economic disparity, tribal affiliations, and political influence often lead to unequal treatment and opportunities for different segments of society. This statement underscores the hurdles and injustices experienced by poor Nigerians, emphasizing the imperative to confront systemic challenges and cultivate genuine equality and inclusivity in the nation. The controversy has highlighted broader issues related to transparency and accountability within Nigeria’s correctional facilities. This has sparked calls for comprehensive reforms to address systemic corruption and ensure equal justice and treatment for all individuals, irrespective of their social status, within the criminal justice system. It serves as a clear reminder to citizens and leaders to prioritize transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct in guiding Nigeria toward a more just and promising future.
Bobrisky allegedly serving his sentence in a luxurious private apartment instead of a prison cell due to the purported bribery of prison officials and law firms sheds light on the dysfunction of the Nigerian correctional and justice system. In a well-functioning democracy, leaders of institutions like the EFCC and the National Correctional Service would have resigned and faced legal consequences. Unfortunately, in Nigeria, there have been instances where the justice system has been criticized for not effectively prosecuting those involved in corrupt practices. This has led to a perception that the rules are sometimes bent to allow the guilty to go free. Instances have arisen where a scandal was linked to Britain. The Nigerian justice system displayed leniency in its punishment, only for the implicated individuals to be subsequently arrested and imprisoned in the UK. This pattern is noticeable in the cases of James Ibori and Senator Ike Ekweremadu, which are still vivid in the public’s memory. The Bobrisky scandal has raised concerns about the effectiveness and fairness of the Nigerian justice system in dealing with corruption.
Bobrisky’s case is a clear example of the unequal treatment prevalent in the Nigerian justice system. It reminds us of the disparities that arise from wealth, social status, or political influence. The preferential treatment received by the privileged undermines public confidence in the fairness of the legal process. It perpetuates the belief that the elite can evade the laws that apply to ordinary citizens. For example, there have been instances where an individual of high social standing has allegedly committed an offense, such as impregnating his spouses while in prison, yet he was not held accountable. If it were an individual from impoverished families, he would have faced harsh sentencing. VeryDarkMan and Seun Kuti were incarcerated at various prisons in Nigeria, while Bobrisky is alleged to have received special treatment, residing in a luxurious apartment outside of prison. This disparity not only smacks corruption but also establishes a troubling precedent for how the justice system handles cases involving people from diverse socio-economic backgrounds. The unequal treatment highlighted here raises significant concerns about the fairness of Nigeria’s justice system. Many believe that individuals with power and wealth are shielded from facing consequences for their actions. This situation reflects deep societal imbalances that must be addressed to ensure justice is impartial and fair for everyone.
In reviewing the controversial decision to allow Bobrisky to serve his sentence in an apartment instead of a correctional facility, the reasons given by prison experts seemed perplexing. Bishop Kayode Williams, Director General of the Prison Rehabilitation Mission, argued on Arise TV that Bobrisky’s transgender identity justified protective custody, citing concerns about potential discrimination and violence due to his appearance. Similarly, former National PRO of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Francis Enobore, shared similar views, highlighting the difficulties of ensuring the safety of transgender individuals in correctional settings. It is almost ironic that protective custody has essentially become a VIP privilege for those considered vulnerable while others are left to navigate the challenges of correctional facilities on their own. Nigeria faces significant barriers to its progress due to widespread cover-ups, corruption, and the misuse of connections to hinder advancement. The complex network of political, business, and personal ties has created a culture where influential individuals exploit their networks to conceal misconduct and obstruct the country’s development. This misuse of connections has led to a lack of transparency and accountability, hindering the establishment of effective governance and fair resource allocation. As a result, the potential for positive change in Nigeria is often stifled by the self-serving actions of those in positions of authority.
The case of Bobrisky highlights the underlying problems within Nigeria’s institutions. For instance, the recent escape of Binance executive Nadeem Anjarwalla while in detention at a guesthouse exposes the systemic failures in national security and law enforcement. Despite these events triggering investigations by the House of Representatives, they often result in mere political theater without genuine accountability. It is questionable whether the invitation of the EFCC Chairman, Nigerian Correctional Service Comptroller General, Bobrisky, VeryDarkMan, and all officers will lead to significant outcomes in the House of Representatives. In a well-functioning society, the nation’s chiefs of Corrections, the Minister of Interior, and the EFCC Chief would have voluntarily resigned or been dismissed by the President in the aftermath of such a scandal. However, this is not the case in Nigeria, where corruption permeates every level of governance, from top to bottom. Nigeria must urgently address the pervasive corruption within its leadership and societal structures to prosper as a nation. Rampant corruption has seeped into every level of governance, hindering progress and stifling development. Building confidence in the justice system requires more than just superficial investigations and token gestures. It calls for concrete accountability, transparency, and a steadfast dedication to substantial reform. Until these fundamental issues are tackled, the influential will continue to exploit legal loopholes and manipulate the system for their gain, leaving average citizens to bear the brunt of a flawed and unjust system that consistently lets them down.
The Nigeria Bar Association’s (NBA) lukewarm attitude towards the recent scandal involving government institutions of reputable standards is deeply concerning. This scandal, which involves allegations of corruption and abuse of power, has far-reaching implications for the integrity of the legal system and the rule of law in Nigeria. The NBA must demonstrate a strong stance against this issue, regardless of whether any of its respected members are involved. The NBA must uphold its commitment to ethical conduct and the pursuit of justice by taking a firm stand on this matter. This scandal cannot be taken lightly, and we urge the NBA to condemn it in the strongest terms possible. They must take a proactive approach to ensure that justice is served. This includes conducting a thorough investigation into the allegations and holding all those involved accountable for their actions. If anyone is found guilty, they must face the full force of the law without exception. The NBA needs to uphold the principles of transparency, accountability, and integrity to restore public trust in the legal system. How can an institution accused of corruption effectively investigate itself and ensure transparency and fairness? It is bizarre for an organization like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to maintain objectivity and trust when facing allegations of corruption. In such cases, external oversight or independent investigators may be necessary to uphold accountability and credibility. We, therefore, call on the government to assign an independent and impartial external committee comprising legal experts, auditors, and anti-corruption specialists to investigate this scandal thoroughly. The committee should be able to gather evidence, conduct interviews, and review financial records without any interference. Their findings should be presented comprehensively to the public, ensuring transparency and accountability. Only through an external investigation free from government interference can we obtain a fair and credible report that will help restore trust and integrity in the investigation process.
In 1983, the renowned Nigerian author Chinua Achebe penned a thought-provoking book titled “The Trouble with Nigeria.” In this compelling work, Achebe delves into the deep-seated issues that plague Nigeria, shedding light on the root causes of the societal ills that continue to afflict the nation. Achebe astutely identifies the failure of leadership as the primary malaise afflicting Nigeria. He posits that with practical and ethical leadership, Nigeria could begin to address and overcome its inherent challenges, including tribalism, lack of patriotism, social injustice, the pervasive culture of mediocrity, indiscipline, and widespread corruption. Achebe’s incisive analysis questions the motives and actions of Nigeria’s leaders and citizens, challenging them to confront the pressing issues hindering the nation’s progress. Regrettably, the situation in Nigeria has not change, compounding the urgency of Achebe’s insights. Unfortunately, influential figures are advocating for the arrest of VDM simply because he exposed sensitive information regarding a prominent law firm that was allegedly involved in corporate malpractice. These individuals argue that VDM’s actions have had a detrimental impact on the reputation of the law firm that was implicated, thereby weakening the effectiveness of the country’s whistleblower protection laws. Furthermore, instead of employing their investigative abilities to uncover the truth, the Arise TV journalists prompted VDM to release the second part of the audio recording publicly. This has sparked criticism that the journalists neglected their journalistic duties by depending on a content creator to distribute information rather than conducting their own independent investigation.
The House of Representatives had summoned the EFCC, NCS, Bobrisky, and VDM to appear before them. However, Bobrisky, who was at the center of the controversy, did not attend. In contrast, VDM was called upon to address the members of the parliament in the absence of the accused. Showing frustration at the National Assembly complex, VDM criticized the absence of the controversial figure Bobrisky and the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) during the scheduled hearing. VDM said he would only deliver a statement when all parties were present. It raises important ethical and procedural questions about why a witness will be asked to speak even when the accused fails to appear before the panel. In a country where the foundations of justice and integrity have crumbled due to widespread corruption, the case of Bobrisky serves as a stark reminder of Nigeria’s leadership failures. This scandal goes beyond individual misconduct, revealing a deep-seated systemic decay that affects every aspect of governance. From the highest levels of power, including government officials and politicians, to the ranks of law enforcement, a culture of dishonesty and moral decline prevails, indicating that Nigeria is not only afflicted by political corruption but also by moral decay. The Bobrisky scandal sheds light on the widespread nature of corruption in the country, exposing its infiltration into various sectors of society. This controversy underscores the far-reaching impact of corruption on the government, business, education, and healthcare. It highlights the challenges ordinary citizens face in a society where integrity often takes a backseat to self-interest. The case of Bobrisky has brought to the forefront the systemic issues of corruption and its influence on different facets of society, ultimately affecting the lives of everyday people. In light of current national challenges, the Bobrisky situation forces us to address the inconvenient reality: a society driven by self-interest finds it challenging to bring about significant change.
The recent events vividly illustrate Nigeria’s troubling history of public deceit, raising serious concerns about the integrity and capability of its institutions to serve the people fairly. The imperative need for institutional reform is not just a request but a necessity. Without genuine accountability and an unwavering commitment to eradicate corruption, the cycle of incompetence will persist, eroding the fragile trust of citizens in their government. How can Nigerians deny that this scandal is not a corruption case when the very essence of the case is intertwined with dishonesty and deception? From the highest levels of power to every interaction, bribery and ethical decay are at play. This deeply rooted dishonesty, where self-interest overrides integrity, exacerbates the nation’s decline. If leaders who are supposed to guide and safeguard the populace are embroiled in corruption, how can the nation hold its head high? The case of Bobrisky transcends mere sensationalism. It serves as a compelling indictment of the deep-seated issues afflicting Nigeria today. Addressing these systemic problems requires a collective awakening to demand reform and accountability, where the rule of law is not merely an illusion but a tangible reality. Unless Nigeria confronts its leadership failures and embraces genuine change, corruption and inequality will persist, impeding progress and relegating its citizens to perpetual despair. The pressing question remains: is Nigeria genuinely corrupt? It seems to be a nation entrenched in a cycle of dishonesty, where a pervasive culture of deceit overshadows the principles of integrity and justice. Is it not time for a change?
Rev. Ma, S.J., is a Jesuit Catholic priest of the North West Africa Province of the Society of Jesus. He writes from Abuja, FCT.
